Activities |
Attractions
Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve
The cloud forest is one of the most famous ecotourism areas in Central America. It is called a cloud forest rather than a rain forest because of the altitude. At an elevation of between 3,840ft and 5,120ft (1,200m to 1,600m) the clouds go... see full details
Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal
The national park is situated within the Arenal Conservation Area, also known as 'the Energetic Heart of Costa Rica'. At its centre is the 5,356ft (1,633m) Volcán Arenal, a typically cone-shaped image despite being highly active, with some huge eruptions and larva flows that... see full details
Parque Nacional Tortuguero
Despite its isolation on the northern part of the Caribbean coast, this national park is an extremely popular destination and one of the most important nesting sites of the green sea turtle, which lays its eggs here between July and October. Three other turtle... see full details
Parque Nacional Cahuita
The only coral reef on the Costa Rican Caribbean coastline is found within this national park, and with 500 species of fish it affords excellent opportunities for snorkelling. It has stunning beaches and is good for both land and water activities making it one... see full details
Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio
Manuel Antonio is the smallest national park but also one of the more popular ones. With beautiful white beaches and rocky headlands, backed by tropical rainforest, mangroves and estuaries, it is easy to see why. Among this varied landscape are typical Costa Rican animals... see full details
Fortuna
Fortuna is the nearest village to the spectacular Volcán Arenal and the main reason for visiting the area. It has uninterrupted views of the volcano and provides a comfortable but touristy base for visiting the national park and other attractions in the area. There... see full details
Monteverde
Monteverde is a small community scattered along several kilometres of road that leads to the Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Reserve. It was founded by North American Quakers in 1951, having bought over 1,000 hectares (2,471 acres) of land for their dairy farming. Today they... see full details
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca
Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, simply known as Puerto Viejo, is a dusty little village lying between the forested mountains of Talamanca and the sea and features excellent surfing, an interesting mix of Afro-Caribbean and Bribri indigenous cultures, and delicious local food. The seven miles... see full details